During the COVID-19 State of Emergency, the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration has kept working on vital projects, including the new interchange at I-270 and Watkins Mill in Montgomery County. The project will foster economic growth and assist Maryland in its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Completed earlier this month, the project includes a bridge over I-270 and ramps connecting Watkins Mill Road with the interstate and is part of Governor Larry Hogan’s investment of $1.97 billion in state highways and bridges. Montgomery County contributed $4.9 million for design and engineering.
“This interchange has tremendous economic benefits for the region and improves access to the Metropolitan Grove MARC Station,” Governor Hogan said. “The men and women of MDOT SHA have delivered a critical link in this employment corridor that will advance our economic recovery as we continue to reopen Maryland.”
The 1.25-mile project began construction in summer 2017 and extends from Montgomery Village Avenue to Great Seneca Creek at Watkins Mill Road. It includes a new four-lane bridge over I-270 with entry and exit ramps from Watkins Mill Road onto I-270.
The interchange and the new section of Watkins Mill Road connect both sides of Gaithersburg, providing improved access to the Gaithersburg Medical Center, Metropolitan Grove MARC Station, the Montgomery County Police Department and local neighborhoods and businesses. This new link will reduce congestion in one of the most heavily traveled areas in Montgomery County and enhance bicycle and pedestrian access throughout the area.
“This project will literally ‘bridge’ two sides of the City of Gaithersburg, connecting residents to job centers, medical centers and the MARC station,” said Transportation Secretary Gregory Slater. “Thanks to the crews of Wagman Heavy Civil Inc. and the hardworking SHA team for working through the health crisis. This project is delivering more travel options with improved access for everyone: motorists, truck drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, transit users – everyone.”
